Wolfgang Ischinger Concludes Munich Security Conference, Highlights Transatlantic Concerns

The 62nd Munich Security Conference (MSC) concluded on Sunday, February 16, 2026, with closing remarks from Chairman Wolfgang Ischinger. The three-day event, attended by over a thousand guests, featured numerous panels, speeches, and bilateral meetings focused on global security challenges.

A Shift in European Resolve

Ischinger noted a “greater spirit of European determination” to defend common values during the conference. This observation comes amid growing concerns about the state of transatlantic relations and the potential divergence of values and interests between Western nations.

Transatlantic Relations Under Scrutiny

A central theme of this year’s conference was the crisis in transatlantic relations. Ischinger expressed doubts as to whether Western countries “still share the same values,” “still play by the same rules,” or are “actually still on the same team.” These questions underscore the increasing complexities and uncertainties in the relationship between Europe and North America.

Wolfgang Ischinger’s Background and Role

Wolfgang Ischinger is a highly respected German diplomat who served as chairman of the Munich Security Conference from 2008 to 2022. According to his Wikipedia profile, he previously held key ambassadorships, serving as the German ambassador to the United States from 2001 to 2006 and to the United Kingdom from 2006 to 2008. He also served as Staatssekretär (Deputy Foreign Minister) in Berlin from 1998 to 2001.

Currently, Ischinger serves as President of the MSC Foundation Council and continues to chair the MSC on a pro bono basis. As detailed on the Munich Security Conference website, he also teaches at the Hertie School in Berlin and is an honorary professor at the University of Tübingen, providing advice to companies, international organizations, and governments on political and strategic issues.

Transition in Leadership

The Munich Security Conference website also notes that Jens Stoltenberg is set to take over as conference chair in the near future.

Key Takeaways

• The 62nd Munich Security Conference concluded with a focus on the need for greater European resolve in defending shared values.
• Transatlantic relations were a dominant theme, with concerns raised about diverging values and interests among Western nations.
• Wolfgang Ischinger, the outgoing chairman, has a distinguished career in German diplomacy.
• A leadership transition is underway, with Jens Stoltenberg expected to assume the role of conference chair.